Skip to main content
Real Madrid's moments to remember on a field of joy
Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni celebrates with the trophy after winning the Uefa Champions League final at Wembley Stadium in London, June 1, 2024

Borussia Dortmund 0-2 Real Madrid
by Layth Yousif
at Wembley Stadium
 

AT THE EDGE of a field of joy, you caught sight of a simple but loving hug. One an attentive son would give his mum when seeing her after work. 

Yet, when the touching embrace had ended, you could see Jude Bellingham’s mother had a gold medal around her neck. 

A Champions League medal that her dutiful lad had placed gently over her head and now hung gleaming from her shoulders. 

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
cosmos
Men's Football / 1 July 2026
1 July 2026

In the first of a three-part series, LAYTH YOUSIF visits a community-driven club in blue-collar Paterson, New Jersey, with a rich heritage that is rising once again 

Arsenal fans celebrate at the Emirates Stadium, London, May 19, 2026
Men’s football / 22 May 2026
22 May 2026

Premier League champions Arsenal will finally lift the coveted trophy this weekend after 22 long years. LAYTH YOUSIF pays tribute to and remembers those who are not here to see it

Benfica manager Jose Mourinho ahead of the UEFA Champions League match at St. James' Park, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, October 21, 2025
Men’s football / 20 February 2026
20 February 2026